Local Fallen Soldier Laid To Rest And Remembered As A Hero

After the funeral a procession of cars, with Chris Mccloud's body leading the way, drove around the square in downtown Athens.

Many stood by, watching, holding American flags with a hand over their hearts, as the Mccloud family and friends drove past.

During the funeral, Chris' wife Sheena and his parents were given three medals, including a purple heart, for his bravery.

It's a physical reminder of the sacrifice he made, but Sheena said Chris' legacy will truly live on his two boys.

"Chris loved his children most. Chris was an awesome father, like no other. He enjoyed sharing his hobbies with Aidan and Landyn like his dirt bikes, fixing the house, and shooting with the guys. I can't wait for the boys to know and understand the hero, soldier, and man that is their father," Sheena said.

Chris grew up in Athens. Many of his friends from around East Texas came to the funeral today. They all say Chris was a hard worker with a humorous side, but when it came to his family and the military, he took them both very seriously, knowing the job he had to do.